NORTHAMPTON — A Southampton man pleaded not guilty Tuesday to charges that he raped a young girl earlier this year.
Joshua Leblanc, 24, pleaded not guilty in Hampshire Superior Court to three charges of aggravated rape and abuse of a child and three charges of indecent assault and battery on a child under 14.
Leblanc allegedly assaulted and raped a 4-year-old girl in June, according to prosecutors. The Gazette generally does not identify alleged victims of sexual assault.
Southampton police began investigating Leblanc after learning about the alleged sexual abuse. They placed him under arrest and seized his cellphone after questioning at the Southampton Police Department, according to court documents.
Leblanc is being held on $25,000 cash bail. Assistant Northwestern District Attorney Lori Odierna told Judge Daniel Ford the bail amount was agreed upon. If posted, Leblanc would be subject to conditions that he have no contact with anyone under 18 years through work, employment or his place of residence.
He must also submit to GPS monitoring.
Leblanc is being represented by attorney Lisa Lippiello. His next court appearance is scheduled for March.